Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

At eight in the morning, Pinehollow's largest farmers' market was buzzing with activity, a lively scene unfolding as locals mingled, catching up and shopping for their daily needs. "Mr. Cole, here for your fish fix again?" a voice rang out amidst the commotion.

"Indeed. Got any salmon today?"

"Sure. I saved some just for you..." The middle-aged woman spoke while skillfully weighing and descaling the fish. "All done."

Norris Cole pulled out his smartphone, asking, "How much do I owe you?"

The middle-aged woman said, "Oh, don't worry about it. Just take it. On the house! My boy Ike hasn't exactly been a walk in the park for you..."

"That won't do. You're running a business here. How can I not pay?" Norris promptly made a payment of $30 in cash.

He was always generous.

Stunned by the payment, the woman protested, "Oh, how can I accept this..."

Norris replied, "I'd feel bad not paying. Anyway, I need to pick up some green onions. You take care now."

"Wait, Mr. Cole..."

his tracks. "Yes? What's

physics competition. Winning the gold medal at the international level could secure a spot at prestigious institutions like Kingswell University or Twilight Peak

nodded. "Yes, there are

you

essence of these competitions. It demands a higher level of knowledge than what the students are used to, a real

excel distinctly in one subject, showing both superior academic skills and

Hazel interjected, "But Ike's grades are excellent. He's consistently ranked in the top 20 in his grade. Doesn't that count for

explain,"

that truly matter Moreover, the school has decided on the nominations for this year's competition.

Hazel replied, trying to mask her

I'll leave you to

smiled. "You too, come

Norris

demeanor changed,

"All this

great at everything. But he's pretending he's powerless, saying the decision's already been made like